Malayalam actor Shine Tom Chacko, arrested in connection with a drug abuse case, has been released on bail, secured with the surety of his parents. The case, filed under Sections 27 (drug consumption) and 29 (criminal conspiracy) of the NDPS Act, remains under active investigation.
Following his release, Shine maintained a low profile, avoiding media attention. However, police sources say this isn’t the end of the road for the actor—he is likely to be called in for questioning again, as inconsistencies have surfaced in his statements.
Shine reportedly confessed during a four-hour interrogation to using cannabis and methamphetamine. But he denied having consumed or possessed drugs on the day of the police raid. He also revealed that he had previously undergone treatment at a de-addiction center, following intervention by his father.
The actor further admitted that drugs were often supplied to him by assistants from the film industry. He also acknowledged knowing individuals like Tasleema—arrested in a previous hybrid cannabis case—and Sajeer, both allegedly tied to the drug network. Forensic analysis of data recovered from Shine’s mobile phone has also hinted at deeper links to narcotics dealers.
The case took a dramatic turn during a raid conducted by the District Anti-Narcotic Special Action Force (DANSAF) at a hotel, where Shine reportedly attempted to flee the scene. He was later apprehended and taken to Ernakulam General Hospital for medical tests. Samples of his urine, blood, hair, and nails were collected and have been sent to a forensic lab in Thiruvananthapuram.
The investigation and interrogation are being spearheaded by Central ACP C Jayakumar and Narcotics ACP K A Abdul Salam, who are expected to delve deeper into Shine’s connections and possible involvement in a broader drug nexus.
